Construction zones, while necessary for the development of the current transportation systems, can be the setting of catastrophic and deadly accidents. If you or someone you love were injured in an accident in a work zone, an experienced Tennessee highway construction accident lawyer can review your case and help you to determine if you have a valid claim. You may be entitled to file for compensation and recover damages for vehicular repairs, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Statistics Report Deaths in Tennessee
In 2012 alone, 130 deaths were reported from occupational injuries that occurred in work or construction zones, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a number higher than 122 in 2011 and 106 in 2010. Of the 1,014 fatalities in Tennessee in 2012, 12 occurred in work zones and 1,002 occurred outside of work zones, according to the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse.
Causes of Construction Work Zone Accidents
Although accidents in work zones can occur due to a variety of factors, many causes are often preventable and the result of carelessness or negligence. For instance, if a driver is speeding, under the influence of alcohol or drugs or is driving while distracted, he or she may be unable to slow down or be aware of an upcoming work zone that requires a speed adjustment.
On the other hand, if a construction company does not research an independent contractor prior to assigning a project and the contractor does not meet or adhere to safety standards, the construction zone as a whole is at a greater risk of an accident. The construction company must also make sure that road signs, a flagger force and cones are used appropriately and give enough warning to oncoming drivers of the construction area.
Steps to Take if You are Involved in an Accident
Call for emergency assistance immediately if you notice that an individual needs medical care. Your first priority should be to check for injuries and assist until responders arrive at the scene. Always remember to file a police report as this document will serve as evidence in your favor if you decide to pursue a claim in the future. You will also need to call your insurance company, but make sure you keep a record of all conversations as documentation.
Regardless of whether you are unsure of the accuracy of your insurance provider, it is often in your best interest to contact a Tennessee highway construction accident lawyer following an accident as he or she can make sure that your claim is correctly processed. Your attorney will be able to determine if you have a valid lawsuit and will assist you in filing for damages such as medical expenses, vehicular repairs or lost income. If you are considering filing a wrongful death claim on behalf of a loved one, a Tennessee highway construction accident lawyer can also help you with this case.
A Tennessee Highway Construction Accident Lawyer Can Inform You of Your Rights
A Tennessee highway construction accident lawyer can assist you or a loved one if you have sustained injuries in a collision in a work zone. The Attorney Group for Tennessee can offer you a free, no-obligation consultation to help you to determine if you have a valid case against another party. Additionally, an affiliated Tennessee highway construction accident lawyer can determine who should be held accountable for your injuries; depending on your situation, there may be one or more parties responsible. The Tennessee highway construction accident lawyer will also work to help you seek the compensation to which you are entitled.
